Where is Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness,Aspen, Colorado?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is located in Colorado, USA. It lies between Aspen and Snowmass Village and is situated in the Rocky Mountains. It is famous for its beautiful mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and hiking trails.

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Location Map,Aspen, Colorado

Top Attractions Inside Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness

  • Maroon Lake – Iconic alpine lake with stunning reflections of the Maroon Bells peaks.
  • Maroon Bells Peaks – Two prominent 14,000-foot mountains offering scenic vistas and photography spots.
  • Crater Lake Trail – Popular hiking trail leading to a serene high-altitude lake with panoramic views.
  • Fravert Basin – Remote wilderness area with challenging backcountry hikes and wildflower meadows.
  • Snowmass Peak & Trail – Dramatic peaks with trails for backpacking and alpine exploration.
  • Wildlife Viewing – Opportunities to spot elk, marmots, pikas, and diverse bird species.
  • Backcountry Camping – Designated wilderness campsites for immersive outdoor adventures.

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Facts

Official NameMaroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
LocationAspen / Pitkin County, Colorado, USA
Latitude & Longitude39.0706° N, 106.9860° W (approx.)
Total Area~181,535 acres (73,425 hectares)
Established1964 (Wilderness designation under Wilderness Act)
FounderUnited States Congress
Managed ByU.S. Forest Service (White River & Gunnison National Forests)
RegionElk Mountains / Rocky Mountains, Colorado
AddressMaroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Aspen, CO 81611, USA
Zip Code81611
Area Code970
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneMountain Time (MT) – UTC−7 Standard / UTC−6 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptAlpine Wilderness, Hiking, Mountaineering, Scenic Lakes, Wildlife, Photography
Sections (Areas)Maroon Bells Peaks - Snowmass Peak Area - Maroon Lake - Crater Lake - Snowmass Creek - Alpine Trails
Famous AttractionsMaroon Bells Peaks - Maroon Lake Scenic Views - Crater Lake - Hiking & Backpacking Trails - Wildlife Viewing
Annual VisitorsApprox. 500,000–600,000 (mostly to Maroon Lake area)
Entry Fee TypeFree Wilderness Access; Maroon Bells Scenic Area shuttle/parking may require fee
Ticket Price RangeShuttle/Day Pass: ~$12–$20 per vehicle
Ticket OptionsShuttle Tickets - Parking Passes - Guided Tours - Backcountry Permits
Best Time to VisitJune–September (summer & early fall for hiking, wildflowers, and clear views)
Nearby AirportAspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) – ~10 miles (16 km); Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) – ~70 miles (113 km)
TransportationCar access via Maroon Creek Road - Seasonal Shuttle Service - Hiking / Backpacking Trails - Bicycle Access
Official Websitehttps://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=81113

Distances from Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness to Nearby Landmarks

  • Maroon Lake – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Maroon Bells Scenic Area – 1.5 km (0.9 mi)
  • Crater Lake Trailhead – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Maroon Creek – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Lake Maroon Overlook – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Maroon Bells Amphitheater – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Snowmass Village – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Aspen, CO – 14 km (8.7 mi)
  • Highline Trail – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • West Maroon Pass Trail – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Crater Lake – 2.5 km (1.6 mi)
  • Conundrum Hot Springs – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Capitol Creek Trailhead – 7 km (4.3 mi)
  • Maroon Bells Scenic Drive Entrance – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Snowmass Creek – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Frater Lake – 8 km (5 mi)
  • North Maroon Trailhead – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Red Lady Lake – 9 km (5.6 mi)
  • Castle Creek Road – 13 km (8.1 mi)
  • East Maroon Trailhead – 6 km (3.7 mi)